Burford moved to Portales after graduating from Hope Christian in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 2012. He came to Eastern in hopes of pursuing a biology degree, but later decided to become a physical therapist.

Nathan is one of the Hound Handlers on campus. He has been working with Vic and Tory, ENMU's live greyhound mascots, since the summer of 2015. Burford said he always has loved dogs and is thankful to have a job where he gets to be around them all the time.

Burford has several memories that he has enjoyed at ENMU; however, he said the one that stands out the most was when he met the women who would become his wife, Mikayla Burford.

"ENMU has given me a lot of great experiences," said Burford. "But getting to know Mikayla has been the best thing to ever happen to me."

In his down time, Nathan likes to work out by playing racquetball with his friends.

"One of my favorite activities to do on campus is play racquetball. I enjoy the competition. I have always been a competitor and racquetball give me a place to do so. Plus it is a fun way to hang out with my best friend."

Burford encouraged students to get out and explore the many activities available on campus. He highlighted the gym's several available activities such as the Max Pac, intermural sports and recreational pickup games.

"Students have a lot that they can take advantage of at the [Steve Loy Family Foundation Arena]. The gym is a great place for students to stay active and have fun."

Burford plans on graduating in the winter of 2017. After graduation, he and his wife plan on looking into pursuing their master's degrees: Nathan in physical therapy and Mikayla in archeology.